Update (6/23/20): We have updated this page to include the live tv streaming service Vidgo
We wanted to take a look at the live streaming services and make a channel comparison across each to help you chose the right live TV streaming service based on the channels you want. In this article, we examine the cable channels, local broadcast channels, regional sports networks, and premium channels on the following live streaming services:
- Live Streaming Service
- Over 58 Channels, Including TLC, AMC, HGTV, and more
- Cloud DVR Included
- 1 Week Free Trial
- Live TV Streaming Service with DVR
- 100+ Local Network and Cable Channels
- 1-Week Free Trial
- Live TV Streaming Service with 70+ Cable Channels
- Live ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox in most markets
- Cloud DVR Included
- Standard Hulu Included
- Live TV Streaming Service with 60+ Cable Channels
- Affordable way to get ESPN, NFL Network, and More
- Innovative “Social TV” Feature
- 3-Day Free Trial
- Live TV Streaming Service
- Multiple Channel Packages
- Cloud DVR Included
- 3-Day Free Trial
- Live TV Streaming Service
- 75+ Local Network and Cable Channels
- Cloud DVR Included
- 1-Week Free Trial
- Live TV Streaming Service
- 50+ Local Network and Cable Channels
- Cloud DVR Included
- 1-Week Free Trial
Cable Channel Comparison
As you can see in the chart below, each service has different strengths and weaknesses in their channels lineups. When it comes to value, Philo (offers a 1-week free trial,) Vidgo (offers free trial,) and Sling (try free trial) set themselves apart from the rest. However, each does have its drawbacks. As you will see later, Philo lacks local broadcast channels and RSNs, Vidgo lacks a cloud DVR, and both Sling TV and Vidgo don’t support TV everywhere apps as well as other services, which are very important to watch on-demand.
TV Everywhere – Apps specific to the channel that install on your smartphone or streaming device. Generally, Philo, fuboTV, Youtube TV, and Hulu do a decent job of supporting TV Everywhere apps. Usually, your credentials for those services will work with the TV everywhere apps. For a complete listing of streaming services and the TV Everywhere channels they support please see our guide to TV Everywhere Apps.
TV Channels – While we compare streaming service channel packages in this article, it is limited to popular channels. You can get a full channel listing for each service from the list below:
for live TV streaming services below:
- Hulu Live Channel List
- YouTube TV Channel List
- Philo TV Channel List
- fuboTV Channel List
- Vidgo Channel List
- Sling TV Channel List
- AT&T TV Now Channel list
In the chart below, you will see columns like “S+$10.” This is due to sling having various add-on packages. Each letter is a separate add-on package with a dollar amount indicating the cost of that add-on package.
Local Channel Comparison
Since it varies based on location, I recommend you check out my guide to watching local channels for more information on what each service offers in regard to your local NBC, ABC, FOX, CBS, etc.
Ultimately, Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV offer all the major networks in the most markets in the country. They are the best option for local networks. AT&T TV Now is also a decent option. FuboTV is behind those as they lack access to ABC, followed by Sling TV which only services larger markets, and then Vidgo which only carries ABC and Fox in limited markets. Philo TV currently isn’t offering local channels.
Regional Sports Network Comparison
When it comes to the availability of regional sports networks, FuboTV comes out on top. Hulu Live TV and YouTube TV are good second choices. AT&T now also is very good on regional sports, but those channels are only available in their “MAX” plan at $80 a month. Philo and Vidgo are not in this list as they do not carry any regional sports networks. Keep in mind that these channels are only available if you live in the market for that channel. For a better idea of which service to get based on the sports your watch, you can see what they have available in your area using the links below.
Fubo TV – Check Channels in your area
Hulu Live TV – Check Channels in your area.
YouTube TV – Check Channels in your area
Premium Channel Comparison
When it comes to premium channel offers, AT&T TV Now has the best overall selection. Hulu Live TV is the second-best option for Premium Channels. Vidgo doesn’t offer premium channels and therefore is not in this list.
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